Paul (41) who took up his new role at the conservation charity’s Culzean Castle and Country park in June, is originally from coastal village of Seaham in the North East of England.

He knows the Ayrshire area well though, as he was the manager at the Gaiety Theatre in Ayr from 2003 until the end of 2006.

Property Manager Paul Pomfret said:

“I am delighted to be part of the National Trust for Scotland and to join the dedicated team of people responsible for the care of Culzean and its many visitors.”

Culzean is one of the Trust’s most popular and well-loved properties and has already welcomed close to 100,000 visitors this year. With an ambitious summer programme of events on offer, Paul hopes his first season will be bigger and better than ever.

He said:

“Starting from my first visit, it was clear that Culzean is a very special place, and with so many events planned in the coming months it is going to be a busy summer which I am sure will be enjoyed by everyone who visits the park.

“There’s no need to struggle to keep the kids entertained this summer in Ayrshire. Just pop into to see us at Culzean, where there are fun family activities on offer almost every day.

“There truly is something for everyone. We have a huge range of activities on offer – everything from getting hands-on with creepy crawlies, to theatre and classic cars. And, by joining the National Trust for Scotland your entry to the park and castle is free. It only costs £5 a month for a family membership, so sign up the next time you visit Culzean. I look forward to seeing you soon.”

Highlights of events at Culzean this month include:

A Midsummer Nights Dream
Thursday 17 July 2008 – 7.30pm

Chapterhouse Theatre company presents an open air production (weather permitting) of one of Shakespeare's best loved plays, 'A Midsummer Nights Dream', in the Carriage Circle in front of Culzean Castle. Bring along a picnic and something comfortable to sit on. Adult £12.00 Child / Concession £6.00 Family (2 adults and 2 concessions) £35.00 Tickets available in advance - 0844 493 2149

The Half Day Hike
Thursday 17 July 2008 – 11.30 – 3.30

Join the Rangers for a 'Half Day Hike' - a longer walk reaching the places that others don't. Remember to bring a packed lunch! Meet at the Visitor Centre. Adult £2.00 Child Free (accompanied).

Pirates Day
Sunday 20 July 2008, from 12 noon.

Dare you meet Scotland's two most wicked pirates, Captain Israel Flint and his incompetent mate Cutthroat Hugo and their vicious shipmates? Main shows at 12.00pm, 2.00pm and 3.30pm. Why not come along in costume? There will be a 'best dressed pirate' competition and a treasure trail. Normal Country Park admission charges apply.

Culzean's Gardens
Tuesday 22 July 2008 – 2pm

Join our knowledgeable Gardens Staff who will conduct a tour for garden enthusiasts. Meet at the Walled Garden Car Park. Adult £2.00/ Child Free (accompanied).

Talking Trees
Thursday 24 July 2008 – 2pm

John our Head Forester for an informative and entertaining walk through Culzean’s woodlands. Meet at the Walled Garden Car Park. Adult £2.00 Child Free (accompanied).

Scottish Country Dancing

Sunday 27 July 2008 – 2.30pm Come along and join the fun as we host Scottish Country Dancing in the Walled Garden. Everyone is welcome to join in, so bring along your dancing shoes. Normal Country Park admission charges apply.

Pond Dipping
Tuesday 29 July 2008 – 2pm

Join the Rangers to learn more about the wildlife living in Culzean's ponds. Meet at the Visitor Centre - and wear your wellies! Normal Country Park admission charges apply.

The Night Hunters
Wednesday 30 July 2008 – 10.30pm

Nocturnal Sights And Sounds - ... More> join the Rangers for a nocturnal walk through the Country Park. Places will be limited - bookings will be accepted from 9.00am on the day only by calling 01655 884400. Meet at the Visitor Centre. Adult £2.00, children free (accompanied).